The haze is back again as Malaysians get afflicted with breathing difficulties, irritated eyes and low visibility. While we won't point fingers as to who is causing it for us Malaysians, the Department of Environment recently stated that all outdoor activities should be avoided when the Air Pollutant Index or API reaches above 100 and schools will be closed if it reaches above 200. Here's how to check or monitor the Haze in Malaysia online or on your phone.
The Malaysian Department of Environment actually has air monitoring stations located throughout the country that provide hourly readings of the Air Pollution in that area. While they don't cover each and every specific location, they do provide a rough idea as to the quality of air around them so we as Malaysians can make better decisions.
How to check Malaysia's API or Air Pollution Index online
- Go to the Department of Environment's Air Pollutant Index Management System (APIMS) site
- Double-click on the map to find your location or click on the target icon and allow the site to get your location
- Check the API reading of the nearest station
How to check Malaysia's API or Air Pollution with your phone
- Download and install the MyIPU app for Android or iOS
- Open the app and check the API reading at the nearest station
How to deal with haze
- Wear a face mask that can filter fine particles like an N95 respirator mask or surgical facemask when outdoors
- Avoid going outdoors
- Drink lots of water and stay hydrated
- Wash your hands and face regularly
- Go see a doctor if your eye irritation, breathing or other haze affliction gets worse
Although schools may be ordered to close after exceeding an API of 200, this actually also applies to Malaysians who work outdoors. The Department of Environment even has Guidelines for the Protection of Employees Against the Effects of Haze at Workplaces along with steps on how to deal with Haze at their site. So, if you're looking for some official haze references to advise your boss, then you know where to go.
Fortunately, many of us can now work remotely, so there are options to get work done online if the haze in Malaysia does get worse. Again, we're still not pointing fingers as to who causes the semi-annual haze here in Malaysia. But you can check the Regional Haze Situation from the APIMS site, which also provides wind flow and hotspot information around the region.
What do you think about the haze? We're definitely not fans, that's for sure, but do share your thoughts in the comments below. If you've found online resources or apps that can help monitor the haze that we didn't list, then do feel free to share as well. As always, stay tuned to TechNave.com for more articles like this.
It's clear where all the hotspots in the region are mostly situated at
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